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Nosocomial calicivirus gastroenteritis in a pediatric hospital
Abstract:
At St. Göran's Children's Hospital (a tertiary center), we perform electron microscopy of feces in most cases of nosocomial gastroenteritis. From September 1987 through April 1992 we identified 32 episodes of calicivirus infection, 25 of which were nosocomial and, except for one outbreak, sporadic. Systematic study of the nosocomial outbreak of calicivirus gastroenteritis from November 1991 to January 1992, revealed calicivirus in the stools of 8 of 23 children with diarrhea and 0 of 10 without diarrhea. In 3 of 7 sampled after cessation of diarrhea, calicivirus excretion continued for 3 to 6 days. We found no calicivirus in 42 staff members or 9 members of infected patients' families. Nosocomial transmission of calicivirus can occur among infants.
Insights
Calicivirus infections are often acquired in hospitals, particularly among infants. This study found evidence of nosocomial transmission, with infected children shedding the virus for several days after symptoms resolved.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Infectious Diseases
- Gastroenterology
- Microbiology
Background:
- Nosocomial gastroenteritis is a common concern in pediatric healthcare settings.
- Calicivirus is a significant cause of infectious diarrhea in children.
- Electron microscopy is utilized for diagnosing viral gastroenteritis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the incidence and transmission patterns of calicivirus in a tertiary children's hospital.
- To identify the role of calicivirus in nosocomial gastroenteritis outbreaks.
- To determine the duration of viral shedding in infected children.
Main Methods:
- Electron microscopy of fecal samples was performed.
- Epidemiological data on nosocomial gastroenteritis cases were collected.
- Calicivirus detection in stool samples from children, staff, and families was conducted.
Main Results:
- 32 episodes of calicivirus infection were identified, with 25 being nosocomial.
- Calicivirus was detected in 8 of 23 children with diarrhea during an outbreak.
- Calicivirus excretion persisted for 3-6 days post-diarrhea cessation in some cases; none found in staff or families.
Conclusions:
- Calicivirus is a cause of nosocomial gastroenteritis in infants.
- Nosocomial transmission of calicivirus among hospitalized infants is possible.
- Continued viral shedding highlights potential for prolonged transmission.